South Carolina is a beautiful place to visit.  Between the ocean, the wonderful city of Myrtle Beach, and the green scenery, it makes for a good time.  Just like all states, South Carolina has car seat laws for it’s particular state.  If you live in South Carolina, do you know them?

There are several reasons you should familiarize yourself with your state’s car seat laws.  Not only will you enhance the safety of your child when they’re riding in the car, but you will also avoid your risk of getting a traffic violation and a fine to pay.  So, to make things a little easier, I have South Carolina’s car seat laws below.

South Carolina Car Seat Laws:

• If your baby weighs less than 20 lbs, and is younger than a year old, they must be in the rear-facing position.  This will give their neck time to develop and strengthen.
• If your baby is between 1-5, and weighs 20-39 lbs, they should be in a forward facing seat.
• Now, if your baby happens to be between the ages of 1-5, and weighs 40-80 lbs, they should be in a booster car seat.  This must also be the kind with a lap shoulder belt, not just a lap belt.
• Children 5 years and younger must be in the back seat of the car if it’s available.
• If you fail to meet these requirements, it could result in a $150 fine.

NOTES:

• You should never buy a car seat if it was previously used and owned.  You don’t know if it’s been recalled, if it’s expired, or even worse, if it’s been in an accident.
• Once your child exceeds the weight and height of a car seat, it is crucial that you upgrade them to the next level.

This is just a brief summary of South Carolina’s car seat laws.  Keep in mind that they may change over time, and that it’s your responsibility to check them on occasion.